New motorway roadworks could cause delay

Julian Hearne

Motorists are being warned to expect significant delays on the motorway network around Glasgow - as part of a new £500m gantry replacement project gets underway.

The M74, M73 and M8 will all be affected from August 8, as work begins to remove existing and install new structures.

Major traffic management is required along the motorway network to ensure these works are carried out safely. This includes reducing the carriageway to two lanes in each direction and, at times, will result in the closure of various slip roads on the M8, M73 and M74.

The works to remove and install the new gantries are scheduled to begin on the following dates:

•M74 – northbound and southbound between Junction 2A, Fullarton and Junction 6, Hamilton from 8th August 2016 for approximately three months.

•M73 – northbound and southbound between Junction 1, Maryville to Junction 2, Baillieston, from mid –September for approximately six weeks.

•M8 – north and southbound from Junction 10, Easterhouse to Junction 8, Baillieston, from mid-August for approximately four months.

Project manager Graeme Reid, said: “Transport Scotland is working with the contractor to ensure these works are completed as quickly as possible. Whilst we’re doing everything we can to minimise the disruption, delays will be inevitable, so we’re asking motorists to check the Transport Scotland and Traffic Scotland websites for updates on these key routes, to plan their journeys in advance and to look at taking an alternative route if possible.”

When complete, the M8 M73 M74 Motorway Improvements Project will significantly reduce congestion across the central Scotland motorway network, shaving approximately 20 minutes off the daily commute from Glasgow to Edinburgh.